No McKenna Celtic Discussions as Bellamy Pledges to Wales

Football Managerial News

Kieran McKenna and Craig Bellamy have been linked with the Celtic vacancy

The Championship club's their manager states he has had "no discussions" with the Glasgow club about their managerial vacancy, while Welsh national team manager the former striker is dedicated to completing his team's World Cup campaign.

Each have been linked with the manager's job at the Scottish champions following the former manager's departure on Monday.

McKenna's Position on The Scottish Club

McKenna referred to Celtic as "a really big soccer institution" but emphasized he is "in the middle" of a "extensive rebuilding" with the Championship side.

The 39-year-old assumed control of Portman Road in recent years and guided the team to the English top flight with back-to-back promotions, but they managed only a handful of victories last campaign as they were relegated back to the second division and they presently occupy twelfth place in England's second tier.

"There have been such discussions," the London-born ex- Northern Ireland young player said when asked about being on the candidate list.

"It's not something I have considered seriously, or where any part of my focus is currently.

"I possess a special position here at a special team. And we're at a crucial stage of the campaign. Anything external hasn't reached my radar."

Context and Agreement Details

Reports indicate that McKenna would be open to speaking to Celtic given his boyhood allegiances.

"Growing up, we all have our preferences," he said when questioned about those. "I don't think all people has to go around and announce what they used to be, but naturally it's a really big sports organization."

McKenna signed a fresh multi-year deal in 2024 and was questioned about his reported £5m release clause.

"Throughout coaching agreements, there are things," he replied. "I don't know what mine are and, were I informed, I wouldn't tell you anyway!

"I approach this job like I will remain Ipswich manager forever. I know that's not invariably going to be the situation, but I will consistently give maximum effort as long as I am here."

Bellamy's Position

The former striker played for Celtic on temporary transfer from the Magpies in the mid-2000s, but the ex- Wales striker is minded to complete the ongoing World Cup campaign, a position that would effectively rule out the mid-forties from immediately taking the Glasgow position.

The Welsh squad are presently in third place in their qualifying group behind group toppers Belgium and second-placed Macedonia.

Wins over Liechtenstein and their rivals in next month would book their place in the qualification play-offs, but they are virtually guaranteed of making those, due to a successful European competition performance, should they not end up their group runners-up.

Given his current stance, the Wales manager, whose contract expires after the European Championship, would not be available until following the play-offs at the minimum.

Key Points

  • Ipswich's manager denies any talks with the Scottish club
  • The coach emphasizes commitment to his current club
  • Wales' manager focused on World Cup campaign
  • Each coaches connected with the Glasgow position
  • The Welsh coach not free until post tournament matches
Natalie Vega
Natalie Vega

A seasoned esports journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories behind top players and teams.